When Love and Lust Collide, Brain Becomes Confused: A Rare Case of Atrio-Oesophageal Fistula Following Cardiac Ablation and Literature Review

Traditionally, atrial fibrillation (AF) treatment has been based on heart rate control, rhythm control, and anticoagulation.Radiofrequency catheter ablation (RFCA) is now a mainstream therapeutic option for patients who have failed or been refused medical treatment.While recent trials have shown some decrease in mortality after catheter ablation (CA) compared to medication, the procedure still incurs significant complications and mortality rates.Atrio-oesophageal fistula (AOF) is a scarce but tragic complication usually present 1-4 weeks post-RFCA that may threaten a patient's life if diagnosed late.In this paper, we report a rare case of atrio-oesophageal fistula manifested by persistent chest pain and loss of consciousness and a literature review.